Timely Onyedika return the key to Super Eagles unbalancing Gabon in 2026 WCQ showdown

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has received welcome news ahead of Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup playoff campaign, with Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika making his long-awaited return to action after a spell on the sidelines.

The 24-year-old featured in the second half of Brugge’s league clash against FC Dender, stepping back into competitive football after more than a month out. Onyedika had missed seven matches across all competitions: four league games, a Crocky Cup tie, and two UEFA Champions League fixtures. His reappearance after thirty-seven days was a relief both in Belgium and in Nigeria, where his fitness had become a growing concern within Chelle’s camp.

Introduced for Romeo Vermant in the closing stages against Dender, a match that also featured his compatriot Benjamin Fredrick, the FC Ebedei product delivered a composed display that echoed the calm and assurance that defined his performances before the injury setback.

Super Eagles midfield receives timely lift

Onyedika completed 25 of 29 passes (86%), with 13 of 16 in the opposition half (81%) and 12 of 13 in his own half (92%), while successfully finding his target with his only attempted long ball. The outing showed his quiet efficiency and positional discipline traits that have earned him admiration within Brugge’s system and trust in the national set-up.

Back in the game. 🫡

— Club Brugge KV (@ClubBrugge) November 2, 2025

Chelle’s midfield options were stretched during the October qualifiers, when injuries and absences forced tactical compromises. The return of the Brugge man now restores a measure of balance and control that the Super Eagles have lacked in recent fixtures.

The recovery of one of Nigeria’s most dependable midfielders arrives at a crucial moment. Though often underrated back home, Onyedika remains one of the most disciplined and consistent players available to the three-time African champions.

His presence offers Chelle both stability and subtle strength in the middle of the park, and it is hoped he will be rewarded with the minutes his reliability deserves as Nigeria’s World Cup pursuit gathers pace.